Finally, spring is officially here with melted snow and chirping birds. That means it's time for green grass, fresh air, blooming flowers and spring cleaning. View our spring cleaning storage checklist to get started.
Now that you've thrown open all the windows to let in the clean, spring air, you are probably in the midst of doing some cleaning around the house and in the yard. Whether you are organizing, cleaning inside, or raking up the yard outside, you may want to consider renting a self storage unit to remove some of the clutter that has built up over the long Alberta winter.
Check out some spring cleaning tips:
1. Make a checklist
Scope out your home. What areas need the most work? Where do you skip during routine cleaning? Those are the best places to start. Regardless of where you start, having a plan for when you're tackling each room will keep you focused. It will also prevent you from jumping from one task to another without ever really completing anything.
2. De-clutter and Organize
It is easy to be overwhelmed by the countless "junk drawers" and "storage closets" in your home, so make it easier on yourself and focus on decluttering one area at a time. Decluttering makes you more efficient and keeps you organized. But more than that, clutter has psychological influences. It signals our brain that work isn't done. A disorganized home adds to your stress level.
Tackle the hardest spots first by starting with smaller areas, like your cupboards, cabinets, shelves and closets. Once you have gotten these out of the way, you can then work your way to bigger spaces, which tend to be less cluttered.
If you have dishes, small appliances, furniture or other items you are saving for when your children move out...pack them up and place them in self storage. This will give you more space for the every day items you use. And by storing with Riel Park RV & Self Storage, you keep the clutter down in your house. Stacks of paper or bills, that are taking up space, can be packed up and stored in a self storage unit as well.
Invest in creative storage solutions like under-the-bed containers and space bags for extra clothes and bedding.
If you plan to paint or give your carpets a thorough cleaning, you may want to move your furniture into a short-term storage unit.
3. Work from Top to Bottom
It's important to start from the ceiling down. This will force debris downward and keep you from having to re-dust or re-clean your space. If you have a vacuum with an extension hose, use it to get cobwebs and dust from your ceilings and fans first.
Then, dust your furniture and other items before vacuuming all the dust and debris off your floors. It will save you time.
4. Clean the Not So Obvious
Every room has baseboards and yet they are one of the most overlooked areas of the home. Spring cleaning is a perfect time to address these as they can get pretty dirty and grimy. To match your newly cleaned baseboards, you'll want to wash your doors as well. It's surprising how much can build up on your walls over the year. Freshly cleaned walls, doors and baseboards can instantly brighten any room.
Curtains, drapes and blinds can really make any room in your house pop. Unfortunately, they are also great at collecting dust, grime and pet fur. A thorough clean will spruce them up nicely for the spring.
Don't forget to clean the windows. Clean all the dirt and smudge marks off the glass and vacuum out all of the windowsills and screens. A microfiber cloth is a great tool for all glass and windows, as they leave a nice streak free shine. The finished product will leave you feeling incredibly satisfied.
5. Go Green When You Clean
A steam cleaner is a great tool for spring cleaning. Clean your microwave, tile, hard surface floors, kitchen appliances, bathrooms, and even outdoor areas. Steam cleaners only use hot water vapor, so they are 100% natural and chemical free. Please keep in mind - not everything can be steam cleaned.
If you don't have a steam cleaner, one of the best natural combinations for cleaning is white distilled vinegar, baking soda, and water. These ingredients are affordable, non-toxic, and have worked for ages when it comes to cleaning.
If you find you need extra space consider renting a self storage unit at Riel Park RV & Self Storage, an Elite Self Storage Facility. Our St. Albert storage facility is in close proximity to the various northwest communities, CFB Namao and St Albert trail. Secure and affordable storage near you in St. Albert at Riel Park RV & Self Storage.
